A pharmacist internship that starts next month could jump‑start your career. The Western Cape Department of Health is looking for 20 new interns for 2026, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the internship is
The Department of Health offers a 12‑month Pharmacist Internship under the Chief Directorate: Emergency and Clinical Support Services. Interns will work in Medicine Management, Bloods and Laboratory Services Support at various institutions across the Western Cape. The post number is POST 20/318. Salary is R457 836 per year.
Who can apply
You must have a qualification accredited by the South African Pharmacy Council that allows you to register as a Pharmacist Intern. You may already be registered, or you can apply if you have proof of registration application and payment of the required fees. This concession is only for first‑time registrants.
Other eligibility points:
- Basic qualification recognised by the SAPC
- Registration (or pending registration) as a Pharmacist Intern
- Ability to work under pressure and maintain professionalism
- Good communication and computer skills
What you will gain
During the year you will:
- Provide pharmaceutical care and dispense medication under supervision
- Evaluate prescriptions and advise patients on proper use
- Help manage medicine supply, from procurement to distribution
- Assist in training pharmacy staff and other health workers
- Develop knowledge of pharmacy law, health policies and safety standards
How to apply
- Visit the official Health Jobs portal: www.westerncape.gov.za/health-jobs.
- Click “Online Applications”.
- Select the post with number POST 20/318 and start a new application.
- Upload all required documents (see list below).
- Enter your five preferred institutions in the cover letter.
- Submit before 29 June 2026 at 17:00.
Required documents
- Cover letter stating your 5 preferred institutions
- Comprehensive CV
- Three referee letters
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of university transcript for the three years of study
- Certified copy of SAPC student registration certificate
Applications without five preferred institutions will be rejected.
Tips to improve your chances
- Proofread your cover letter and tailor it to each preferred institution.
- Ensure every document is a clear, certified copy and is labelled correctly.
- Highlight any experience with pharmacy software or inventory management.
- Prepare for the technical competency test – review South African pharmacy legislation and hospital pharmacy procedures.
- Practice a short interview on Microsoft Teams; test your internet connection and camera beforehand.
- Do not pay anyone for the application – it is free.
Additional information
- No accommodation is provided during the internship.
- You may be placed at a site other than your first choice, depending on availability.
- All shortlisted candidates will take a technical competency test and attend a Teams interview.
- For queries, email Leonard.Liddell@westerncape.gov.za (Mr L Liddell).
Employment equity
The Department of Health and Wellness follows an Employment Equity Plan that promotes equal opportunity and eliminates unfair discrimination.
Next steps
Gather your documents, write a focused cover letter, and submit your application before the deadline. This could be the first step toward a rewarding career in public‑sector pharmacy. Good luck!
